Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence

Meet your gentle path to refined skin. This lightweight essence harnesses the power of 8% naturally-derived AHA from fruit extracts to effectively exfoliate without the harshness. It’s specifically designed for conscious users seeking visible results—smoother texture, reduced dullness, and a renewed glow—without compromising on clean, transparent ingredients.

Clean, thoughtful formulation

This essence is carefully formulated to deliver effective exfoliation while respecting your skin’s barrier. It is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and free from essential oils, making it a transparent choice for those who prioritize clean, gentle yet active skincare.

For smoother, radiant skin

Gentle exfoliation that reveals a brighter, more refined complexion

Reveals a smoother skin surface

This essence uses naturally-derived AHA to dissolve the bonds holding dull, dead skin cells to the surface. With regular use, it helps uncover the softer, smoother skin beneath, improving texture and promoting a healthy, natural glow without harsh scrubbing.

Helps minimize the look of rough texture

By removing the layer of dead cells that can cause a rough, uneven feel and appearance, this formula helps to refine the look of pores and minimize superficial texture. The result is a complexion that feels visibly smoother and looks more uniform to the touch and eye.

Boosts absorption of following products

Exfoliating with AHA can enhance the penetration and effectiveness of your subsequent skincare steps. This essence preps your skin, allowing serums and moisturizers to absorb better, which supports your overall routine for healthier, more luminous-looking skin.

Ideal for these needs

When this essence works best

Rough skin

For dull, uneven texture

Smooths rough texture and promotes a softer feel by gently exfoliating dull surface cells.

To boost overall radiance

Dull skin

Gently sweeps away dull surface cells to reveal a brighter, more renewed-looking glow.

Sensitive skin

For sensitive, conscious skin

Alcohol-free and fragrance-free for sensitive users seeking AHA benefits without irritants.

How to use

Your exfoliation guide

Incorporate this exfoliating essence into your routine with care. Follow these simple steps to ensure effective exfoliation while maintaining your skin’s health and barrier, maximizing benefits for a clearer, smoother complexion.

Apply after cleansing

Start with a thoroughly cleansed, dry face. Using a cotton pad, dispense a small amount of the essence. Gently sweep the pad across your face, focusing on areas with uneven texture or dullness, while avoiding the delicate eye and lip contours.

Pat in and layer products

After application, allow the essence to fully absorb into your skin for about 1-2 minutes. You may feel a very mild tingle; this is normal. Proceed with your next skincare steps, such as a hydrating toner, serum, and a moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Follow with morning sunscreen

Since AHAs can increase sun sensitivity, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher is the essential final step in your morning routine the day after using this essence. This protects your newly exfoliated skin and preserves your results.

After a few weeks of using this a couple times a week, the rough patches on my cheeks are so much smoother. It doesn't sting or feel irritating like some other acids I've tried. My skin just looks clearer and feels really soft. I'm impressed with how gentle it is.

I was nervous about trying an AHA with my combination skin, but this has been great. It helps control the flakiness on my nose and forehead without drying me out. My moisturizer sinks in better now, and my overall skin tone looks more even. A new staple for me.

This essence has a lovely, light texture that absorbs instantly. No fragrance is a big plus for me. I noticed my skin had a subtle glow after about three weeks and felt less congested. It's effective without being aggressive, which is exactly what I was looking for.

I've struggled with dull-looking skin for a while. Since adding this to my evening routine, the difference is noticeable. It gives a gentle polish that leaves my face looking brighter in the morning. It's a simple step that makes a real difference in my skin's clarity.

Finally found an exfoliant that works for my sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. The formulation is clean and doesn't trigger redness. It smooths my texture without any drama, just clearer-looking, calmer skin over time. Highly recommend for anyone hesitant about acids.

Real experiences

What people are saying

Hear from individuals who have incorporated this gentle exfoliating essence into their routines to address texture and dullness, and learn about their experiences with the product’s feel and visible outcomes.

Your questions answered

Find answers to common questions about using this gentle AHA exfoliant. Learn about its suitability for sensitive skin, how to incorporate it into your routine, and what results you can expect from consistent use.

Is this exfoliating essence suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types?

This essence is formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its 8% AHA concentration is effective yet gentle, and it is free from alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils to minimize potential irritation. We always recommend patch testing and starting with less frequent use to assess your skin’s tolerance.

How often should I use this essence and what is the best application method?

For best results, use the essence 2-3 times per week in the evening, after cleansing and before your toner, serum, and moisturizer. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad and sweep across the face, avoiding the eye and lip areas. On non-exfoliating nights, follow your normal routine. Always use sunscreen the following day.

What kind of results can I expect and how soon will I see them?

With consistent use, you may begin to notice smoother texture and a more even-looking skin tone within 2-4 weeks. Individual results vary, but exfoliation is a gradual process. Continued use helps maintain these benefits and supports long-term skin health and radiance.

Is it necessary to use sunscreen while using this AHA product?

Because this essence exfoliates the skin’s surface, it can increase photosensitivity. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher every morning is crucial to protect your freshly revealed skin and maintain your results. This is a non-negotiable step when using any AHA product.

Can I use this essence on other parts of my body besides my face?

While designed for facial use, you can carefully apply a small amount to areas of the body with rough texture, like the elbows or knees, to test for tolerance. The formula is not intended for broken or irritated skin. Discontinue use if significant discomfort occurs.

How should I incorporate this essence if I already use other active ingredients?

If you use other actives like retinoids, vitamin C, or BHA, it’s best to use them on alternate nights from this essence to avoid over-exfoliation and potential irritation. Introduce new actives one at a time to monitor how your skin responds. Listen to your skin and adjust frequency as needed.

Complete your routine

Products that pair well with AHA exfoliation

Building a complete routine around exfoliation can enhance your results. Explore complementary products from Isntree that support hydration, sun protection, and calming care, helping you create a balanced regimen tailored to your skin’s needs after exfoliation.

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Isntree Sunscreen

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